Rudy the Red Hawk

In June of 2013 the Gateway Technical College Board of Trustees adopted the "Red Hawk" as the official mascot for Gateway Technical College. The Red Hawk (short for Red-tailed Hawk) is a majestic bird that is well known throughout the state of Wisconsin and North America. The Red Hawk can be identified by brick-red feathers along the crown of the head and throughout the tail.

Red-tail Hawks are noted for soaring high above the landscape, symbolic of the dedication and commitment of Gateway students in their pursuit of academic excellence and workforce success. Unlike other raptors, Red-tailed Hawks are known to be found in cities as well as rural areas, which mirrors the Gateway district mix of urban and rural landscape.

In flight, the Red-tail Hawk holds a steady and deliberate pattern. For over 100 years Gateway has demonstrated a similar commitment to its mission of providing education and training opportunities for all learners and meeting our communities' workforce education goals. The Gateway Red Hawk serves as a reminder of the important contributions Gateway students have made to the college and their communities over the history of the college and the responsibility we all have for creating our future.

As Gateway developed its official mascot, we wished to identify an approachable personality for our symbol who will be representing us to our communities. Rudy the Red Hawk was quickly adopted and participates in student life activities, academic competitions, and represents the college at key community events.